Largesnout Goby — a Gobiidae from southern Chinese coasts and estuaries, peaceful except over a chosen cave. Reaches 11.2–16.5 cm; pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots. 18–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful except over a chosen cave
Origin
southern Chinese coasts and estuaries
Species overview
Gobiidae species Awaous melanocephalus comes from southern Chinese coasts and estuaries. A benthic percher that spends its days darting between rock, glass and cave — structure decides its temperament. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 11.2–16.5 cm. Pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots. Caves, stable pairs and clean sand keep this fish far calmer than open, bare tanks ever will. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
Shallow streams and estuaries over sand
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Flat stones and shells
Plants
Sparse hardy plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Pairs or small groups with ample hiding spots
Diet
Predatory bottom-picker; offer varied small fare
Recommended tankmates
Non-goby bottom fish — Ignore its territorial posturing
Avoid keeping with
Large aggressive fish — Shatter its sense of cover
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males larger and more colourful
Breeding method
Lays eggs in a sheltered cavity; males fan and guard